Most people with pets love them and their pets love them back. Why do you ask?The positives seem outweigh to negatives. But, consider the negatives:

The added expense of veterinarian requirements (immunizations, flea medications, skin problem medications / shampoos, etc. etc.,) not to mention the expense of a constant supply of wet and dry food and new toys. They often interrupt your creative endeavors by jumping in your lap looking for attention when you absolutely can't give it to them. They do unexpected things like run in the street and cause an accident for which you get sued... or scratch an elderly neighbor causing complications which almost cause her death. They bark in the middle of the night and rob you of valuable sleep. Dogs might bite and Cats could scratch suddenly and unexpectedly for who knows what reason. You must witness their boredom and anxiety if they don't have a real job to do. (Cats like to catch mice and bugs. Dogs like to protect, fetch and round up others.) Their dependence on you for food, exercise and entertainment is sometimes overwhelming. They get old and have health problems. They die after you have finally developed a huge appreciation and love for them.

I have two dogs, a hedgehog, and frogs, so I certainly enjoy having pets.

I'd say the biggest negative is having to find alternate arrangements for them if you want to go somewhere for longer 12 hours. It's been much harder in my experience to find someone to watch my dogs than it is to find someone to watch my toddler!

But the good far outweighs the bad. One of my favourite things in the world is watching my big Rottweiler/Mastiff run around and play super gently with my 2.5 year old. It is so, so sweet. Cuddling up with my little dog in bed is another favourite of mine.

Love them. I divorced and chose to leave my kitties behind in their home. I miss holding and cuddling them and watching their antics, but I know they are happiest together where they are. Studies show that pets contribute to our lives in a very positive way.